Whether you visit Homearama to simply ooh and aah over the beautiful new homes or to shop for ideas for your own building or remodeling project, you're sure to see the latest in housing and decorating trends.

This year's Homearama, which runs today through July 29, features 10 homes in Beech Spring Farm in eastern Jefferson County, ranging in price from $800,000 to $1.6 million.

Elegant comfort is the name of the game. Regardless of decorating style, all the homes emphasize easy living.

Hearth rooms are the new family living space; they combine kitchen, casual dining and cozy sitting areas with a fireplace. Natural materials are used throughout these areas, with an emphasis on granite, stone and wide-planked wood floors.

Outdoor living continues as a huge trend, with fireplaces, cooking areas and luxurious seating.

Natural elements give many of the homes a friendly, "green" feel. Look for cedar shutters, barn-wood ceilings, exposed beams and buttresses, reclaimed brick, and use of copper, brass and metals in handrails and fixtures

And bye-bye basements. The trend now is "lower-level living," complete with 10-foot ceilings and bricked arches. Most of the lower levels hold multiple bedrooms, game rooms and the latest in lavishness: custom-designed wine cellars.

Media rooms continue to play a big role in these casual areas. Be sure to check out the multitiered theater room featured in one of the homes.

Take time also to enjoy the outdoor settings at Beech Spring Farm. A spring runs behind some of the homes, and it is refreshing to view on a warm summer day.

Homearama trends

 Garages are now as well-dressed as the rest of the house, with beautifully laminated cabinets and finished floors.

 Ceilings are works of art. White is no longer the color of choice, with wallpapers, unique faux finishes and wall colors used instead. Look for exotic designs, such as double and triple trays, coffered and even a fleur de lis ceiling.

 Speaking of fleur de lis, they are everywhere -- imbedded in walls and driveways -- a nice tribute to the city of Louisville.

 Lower levels (formerly known as basements) are no longer closed off with a door. Stairways to the lower level are open and inviting.